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How to Clear Firewood

Many people want to obtain firewood but are concerned about the safety, sustainability and practicality of clearing their own firewood. Questions arise about which trees should be cut, when to cut the trees, how to cut and dry the wood and how the clearing will affect the land. Since it is possible to ruin the value of the land by clearing the wrong tress for firewood, certain guidelines must be followed to maintain the condition of the woods while getting the best firewood.

Things You'll Need

safety equipment
chainsaw
storage shed

Instructions

- 1
  Decide if clearing your own firewood is cost-effective. Although the trees might be free, there are associated costs with clearing firewood including safety equipment, a chainsaw and storage for drying the wood.
- 2
  Select trees appropriate for firewood. Some trees might be good choices for firewood, some might be better off left for wildlife or just for aesthetic reasons. Trees that should be cleared for firewood include diseased trees or trees that are crooked and densely arranged.
- 3
  Plan your clearing strategy. Plan which trees to clear first to give room to clear other trees later. If you are working with a partner, keep each other in clear sight to prevent accidents. Some trees might drop large branches during the clearing process; perform this work when you easily can see these branches.
- 4
  Use the proper cutting techniques. Stand in a way that provides support and prevents fatigue. There are generally two directions to cut, upwards and downwards. Most cuts are made by placing the saw above the wood and cutting down through it. In some cases, the wood will pinch the saw and become stuck; in this case, cut upwards. Cut off branches that are too small for firewood first. Place the saw at the base of these branches and cut them off smooth where they are attached. When cutting the trunks, start from the top of the tree down. As the diameter of the trunk thickens, work the saw at different angles. Cut the wood at two 45-degree angles on both sides of the log. When both sides are cut evenly, finish by cutting directly downward.
- 5
  Choose your firewood wisely. Focus only on the wood that burns hot and long. Hardwoods like sugar and red maples, oak, ash, hickory, beech, hornbeam, locust and apple burn well when fully seasoned. Softer trees like birch, aspen, willow, silver maple, larch and pine should be burned sparingly, if at all.
- 6
  Store your firewood. All firewood contains water; freshly cleared firewood can be up to 45 percent water, while seasoned firewood is 20 to 25 percent water. Seasoned firewood is easier to start, produces more heat and burns cleaner. Store your firewood in a dry protected area for at least six months before burning.

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